Yacht crew do NOT fall under sanctions regulations that apply to Russian Superyachts
Caroline Blatter 21 Apr 2022 South Coast of England & London / United Kingdom / Crew
Image: National Crime Agency
The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed to Nautilus International that seafarers are not within the scope of the sanctions regulations that the UK government is applying to Russian superyachts.
There was concern within the industry that the Russian (Sanctions) (EU Exit) (Amendment) (No.7) regulations 2022, which came into force on 30 March, might lead to the prosecution of seafarers working aboard superyachts with Russian owners.
These regulations prohibit the provision of 'technical assistance' to vessels connected with Russia, except in circumstances where failure to provide such assistance would cause danger to life or to the vessel.
However, it is now clear that while Russian superyachts are covered by the legislation, seafarers themselves fall outside its intended scope and are therefore able to work onboard without fear of prosecution.
'We are very pleased to have received this clarification from the Department for Transport, which has been a matter of serious concern for our members,' said Nautilus International head of yacht sector Derek Byrne.
'While this will no doubt be a relief to many, we would remind those who are considering a job onboard a Russian yacht to consider their options carefully, and to remember that they may well experience problems in receiving their wages because of financial sanctions against Russia.'
Nautilus International is the specialist Union and professional organisation
for maritime professionals, a MUST to JOIN for all seafarers and yacht crew.
The Union has an extensive range of services to help members experiencing employment-related problems and queries.
Follow this link to contact them.
